M939

   The M939 series of military trucks was developed in the 1970s. It is an updated version of the earlier M809 series. Its primary function logistical transportation of all types of supplies, mainly on hard surface roads. The programme was plagued with delays and first units were delivered only in 1982. In 1986 production of the M939 series was transferred from the AM General to BMY. Although AM continued in production for a while. A great number of these general utility trucks are still in service with the US Military. Some sources report that about 32 000 are operational. The US Marine Corps are replacing the M809 and M939 series trucks with the new MTVR.

   The overall appearance of the M939 is similar to that of the M809, however there were many detailed changes. The new truck had better overall performance, improved cooling and electrical systems. It is worth mentioning that the M939 series supplemented the previous M809 series without replacement.

   The M939 series vehicles typically have a payload capacity of 4 560 kg. This military truck is capable of towing trailers or artillery pieces with a maximum weight of over 9 000 kg.

   Cab of the M939 provides seating for the driver and two passengers. It is worth mentioning that the earlier models could seat three only at a squeeze. Both soft- and hardtops were available. Cargo area is covered with removable bows and canvas cover.

   The original M939 and improved M939A1 trucks used a Cummins NHC-250 diesel engine, developing 250 hp. The M939 series trucks were fitted with an automatic transmission and improved transfer case, to match the transmission. It has a full-time all-wheel-drive. A central tyre inflation system was fitted on some vehicles. It enables the driver to increase or decrease the air pressure in the tyres, to improve mobility over mud, sand and snow. The M939 military trucks are capable of wading up to 1.5 meters with add-on kit.

   The M939 series was produced in a wide array of M-number models, from M923 to M945 inclusive. Most of these models differed only in having a winch or not, or in wheelbase length. All models share a common engines, chassis and other components. The original M939 (M939A0) can be easily identified by double rear wheels.

Variants

   M923 standard cargo truck with a soft-top cab;

   M925 similar to the M923, but fitted with a winch;

   M927 long wheelbase cargo truck;

   M928 similar to the M927, but fitted with a winch;

   M929 dump truck;

   M930 similar to the M929, but fitted with a winch;

   M931 tractor truck, equipped with a fifth wheel and used to haul semitrailers with loads up to 16 800 kg off-road and 24 900 kg on hard surface roads;

   M932 similar to the M931, but fitted with a winch;

   M934 van body, often used as a mobile command post;

   M936 wrecker. Its winch and crane capacities are similar to the M816 wrecker;

   The M939A2 is a version, powered by a smaller, yet more powerful Cummins 6CTA8.3 8.3-liter turbocharged diesel engine, which provides a greater range. It uses the same automatic transmission. This model had a reduced curb weight and was equipped with a central tyre inflation system as standard. This version was produced by the BMY. The US Army received these trucks in 1989.